New Year's resolutions
It’s that time of year again when we all make New Year’s resolutions. Three common health related ones are , “I’m going to eat better, I’m going to exercise , and I’m going to floss daily! “
Well, I’m here to tell you that extensive research has shown that flossing daily adds 8-10 years on to your life!
Not flossing causes gum inflammation, which not only spreads to the bone around your teeth causing bone loss and periodontal disease but this also causes the release of noxious hormones called inflammatory factors into your bloodstream. These factors increase the plaque accumulation (not dental plaque) in your arteries and cause a significant increase in cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. These factors have also been shown to increase your risks of Gi issues, Kidney disease, dementia and cancers. Pregnant woman have been shown to have babies with lower birthweights due to this inflammation as well.
If your gums bleed upon flossing or brushing then you already have inflammation and are at risk. The bleeding is just a sign, so not flossing so you don’t see blood is not helping prevent the circulation of these destructive hormones. The only way to resolve this is to have a professional cleaning and to start to floss daily. In our practice, we always review proper flossing techniques to make it easier to floss and more effective. For great tips on brushing and flossing, watch Dr. Krochak’s you tube video- Things you didn’t know about brushing and flossing-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdbzc7REEP4 .
Like the plaque that sticks to your teeth, make this resolution stick this year. Like they say in Star Wars, May the floss be with you!
For more information, you can contact Dr. Michael Krochak at
drk@nycsmilespa.com
NYC Smile Spa
30 E. 60th St., Rm 1201
New York, NY 10022
(212) 838-2900